| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 50 | 2g | 0g | 4g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 2g | 1g | 0.2g |
With the first bite of this Radish and Cucumber Salsa, I’m transported to the vibrant streets of old Havana. Known for its resplendent heritage and love for vivacious flavors, Cuba has always fostered my excitement for fusion cuisine. And bringing that exuberance to a vegetable-based recipe steeped in both health benefits and flavor is rather delightful.
A Dance Between Crunchy and Spicy
The crisp notes of radishes and cucumber in this salsa create a refreshing symphony, creating a dish that is as pleasing to the palate as flamenco is to one’s spirit. The punchy undercurrents of jalapeno peppers and red onions add a captivating heat that speaks to my Cuban roots. And the delicate fragrances of fresh cilantro leaves, the citrusy allure of lime juice, and a touch of olive oil draw a parallel with Spanish culinary tapestry, a cuisine renowned for its intricate layering of flavors.
Flavorful Fusion and Health Benefits
This salsa follows the ethos of Mediterranean diet with its abundant use of vegetables and a hint of good fats from olive oil. Radishes, filled with antioxidants, are known for their ability to aid in digestion and lower blood pressure. Similarly, cucumbers come packed with hydration properties and necessary vitamins, promoting overall body health. Plus, the antioxidants from lime juice and the metabolism-boosting properties of jalapeno make this dish as good for your health as it tastes.
What makes the Radish and Cucumber Salsa evocative for me is its versatility. It mimics the palate of Mexican Pico de Gallo, yet retains its own unique charm. It’s wonderful as a standalone summertime salad, a lively side for your Cuban Roast Pork, or scooped on crisp tortilla chips at your next get-together. As your gourmet guru, I can’t help but love a recipe that is flexible, uncomplicated, and utterly delicious.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups radishes, finely diced
- 1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded and finely diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Method
Step One
Prepare your ingredients by finely dicing the 2 cups of radishes, 1 large cucumber (make sure to peel and seed it first) and 2 jalapeno peppers (also seeded). Also finely chop 1/2 cup of red onion and 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the diced radishes, cucumber, red onion, and jalapeno peppers. Add the chopped cilantro to the mixture.
Step Three
In a separate bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. This will serve as your salsa’s dressing.
Step Four
Pour the lime juice dressing over the mixture in the large bowl. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
Step Five
Allow the salsa to sit for a few minutes before serving, this allows the flavors to meld together. Your Radish and Cucumber Salsa is ready to be enjoyed.
